The Problem

Grass grubs

Grass grubs are the larvae of dark brown shiny scarab beetles that lay their eggs in the soil in spring and summer. After the larvae hatch they begin feeding on grass roots. The grubs pupate in winter and emerge as beetles the next spring . The grubs can also eat the roots of vegetables and other desirable plants. Grass grubs are C-shaped, creamy-white and have slightly darker heads. Adult beetles feed on above ground plant parts and can cause problems if they’re present in large numbers.

Grub numbers can be reduced by removing any that are found when digging garden beds. Scarab beetles are attracted to light so, where possible, turn off outside lights whenever the beetles are active.